Top 5 national parks in Kerala perfect for wildlife photographers

Kerala, the "God's Own Country," is a natural paradise loaded with lush greenery, stunning backwaters, and diverse wildlife. Amidst its natural beauty lies several national parks that offer a glimpse into the rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes of this southern Indian state.

Periyar National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Set in the Western Ghats, the park is spread across the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta, this sanctuary is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. The centerpiece of the park is Periyar Lake, where visitors can enjoy boat safaris while spotting animals like elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species.

Eravikulam National Park is renowned for being the habitat of the endangered Nilgiri tahr, a mountain goat species found only in the southern Western Ghats. The park's shola forests make it a favorite destination for trekking and wildlife photography. The highlight of a visit to Eravikulam is undoubtedly the Neelakurinji bloom, which occurs once every twelve years.

Anamudi Shola National Park near Munnar is a biodiversity hub that comprises the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India. The park's rugged terrain, interspersed with shola forests, grasslands, and montane rainforests, supports a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Mathikettan Shola National Park in Idukki district is a hidden beauty waiting to be explored. The park is known for its dense shola forests, which often envelop visitors in a mystical beauty. Trekking through the rugged terrain of Mathikettan Shola offers an opportunity to witness rare and endemic species of flora and fauna, including the elusive leopard.

Silent Valley National Park is an untouched wilderness. The park is noted as one of the last tracts of tropical rainforest in India. This park is home to a plethora of endemic species, including the lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, and Malabar giant squirrel. Trekking through the dense forests of Silent Valley offers a surreal experience.